Tracey Kurland is an innovative entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist who has dedicated her life to helping others succeed. She is the founder of the venture capital firm Valley Capital and a partner in Revolution’s Rise of the Rest Seed Fund. With over 20 years of experience in the tech ecosystem, she has raised millions for startups in industries ranging from healthcare to education. From launching incubators and accelerators to investing in emerging technology, Kurland has been a leader in the startup world.

Who is Tracey Kurland?

Tracey Kurland is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist who has made tremendous contributions to the tech and startup ecosystem. She is the founder of Valley Capital, a venture capital firm dedicated to funding innovative startups in different industries. Kurland also partners with Revolution’s Rise of the Rest Seed Fund, which supports early-stage companies in emerging markets. With over 20 years of experience in the tech ecosystem, she has raised millions of dollars to help startups succeed and make an impact.

Importance and relevance of her work

Tracey Kurland’s work is extremely important as it provides much needed capital to entrepreneurs and startups who are working hard to innovate and develop new products. Her ability to identify promising companies in different industries has enabled them to receive the funds necessary to bring their ideas to life.

Early Life and Education

Background and family

Tracey Kurland was born in New York City, to working-class parents from the Bronx. She grew up in a small apartment and was raised by her mother, who encouraged Tracey to work hard and pursue her dreams. As a child, she had an interest in math and finance, which ultimately shaped her professional career.

Educational achievements

Tracey Kurland graduated from Stuyvesant High School and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Cornell University. She then completed a master’s degree in finance at New York University, which further solidified her commitment to finance and investing. Her education provided the foundation for her career as an entrepreneur and investor.

Professional Career

Notable positions and roles held

Tracey Kurland has held a number of prominent roles and positions throughout her career. She began her career at Goldman Sachs, where she worked as an analyst in the Investment Banking Division. She then joined Lehman Brothers as Vice President of Equity Research before becoming a Managing Director at Banc of America Securities. Kurland has also served as an entrepreneur-in-residence at Union Square Ventures and a venture partner at Morgan Stanley Expansion Capital.

Contributions and accomplishments in her field

Throughout her career, Tracey Kurland has made tremendous contributions to the tech and startup ecosystem. She is the founder of Valley Capital, a venture fund that has raised millions for innovative startups in different industries. Kurland also co-founded Revolution’s Rise of the Rest Seed Fund, which supports early-stage companies in emerging markets. Additionally, she has worked with incubators and accelerators to help startups grow and succeed. Her investment expertise, leadership, and commitment to innovation have enabled her to make an impact on the startup world.

Philanthropic and Advocacy Efforts

Charitable work and philanthropic endeavors

Tracey Kurland is a passionate philanthropist who has worked with various charities and organizations throughout her career. She is a board member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization, which focuses on helping entrepreneurs succeed by providing educational resources. Kurland is also a mentor at the New York-based startup incubator, The Garage.

Activism and advocacy on specific issues

Tracey Kurland is also an outspoken advocate for women’s rights and gender equality. She is a member of the Board of Directors at the Women’s Venture Fund, which invests in early-stage businesses founded or run by women. Kurland has also spoken out about the lack of diversity in the tech industry, encouraging companies to take active steps to increase diversity in their workforce.

Personal Life

Family and relationships

Tracey Kurland is married to her husband, Eric Lefkofsky, and they have three children together. In her spare time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and playing tennis.

Hobbies and interests

Tracey Kurland is passionate about music and is a dedicated fan of Bruce Springsteen. She also enjoys reading books and attending Broadway shows. Additionally, she has been involved in the New York art scene and enjoys collecting artwork from emerging talents.

Recognition and Awards

Honors and awards received

Tracey Kurland has been honored with various awards and accolades for her professional accomplishments. She was named one of the “30 Most Influential Women in Private Equity” by Pe Hub Magazine and was a recipient of the 2018 Women in Business Award from Crain’s New York Business. Additionally, she is an inductee to the Cornell University Entrepreneur Hall of Fame.

Impact of her work on the community and industry

Tracey Kurland’s work has had a tremendous impact on the startup and tech ecosystem. Her investments have helped drive innovation and economic growth in many emerging markets. Additionally, her advocacy for gender equality has helped to create more opportunities for women in the tech industry. She is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and investors who are looking to make an impact with their work.

Current and Future Endeavors

Ongoing projects and ventures

Tracey Kurland is currently focused on expanding her venture fund, Valley Capital. She is also working on developing new avenues of investment for emerging startups in different industries. Additionally, she is actively involved in mentoring and advising young entrepreneurs to help them succeed in the tech world.

Future plans

In the future, Tracey Kurland plans to continue investing in innovative startups and helping them grow and succeed. She is also committed to advocating for gender equality and diversity in the tech industry. Additionally, she hopes to continue her philanthropic efforts and support charitable organizations that are making a difference in the world.

Conclusion

Tracey Kurland is an influential investor and philanthropist who has made a lasting impact on the startup and tech ecosystem. She is a passionate advocate for gender equality and diversity in the industry, and her efforts have helped create more opportunities for women in the tech world. Her current and future endeavors are focused on helping emerging startups succeed while fostering economic growth in different industries.